“…Therefore, whether we live or die, we are the Lord’s.” – Romans 14:8 (NKJV)
One of the most beautiful feelings in this world is the confident assurance that we belong. Abraham Maslow, the renowned psychologist, presents this feeling as the third layer in his hierarchy of human needs.
This sense of belonging does not make us the property of anyone; rather, it says to us that we are valued and valuable, forever connected to those who love us and appreciate our presence. It assures us that our needs will be supported and met. If attacked, we will be protected and defended. When hurt, we will be comforted and healed. Even when we fail by giving in to our sinful nature, we will be treated with compassion.
This, beloved, is what it means to belong to God. This sense of belonging is not a result of anything we planned or did for ourselves. It was through God’s salvation plan and His overwhelming love for His creation. We are bought with a price – the precious Blood of Jesus Christ, which He shed on the cross of Calvary. We belong to Him! John 15:5 tells us that we are forever connected to Him through the Father, and we are guaranteed to be fruitful as a result.
Psalm 23 highlights God’s care, providence, patience, peace, and protection. The most arduous conditions are no match for the One to whom we belong. In Isaiah 43:2, He promises His protection from fire, waters, and rivers. He vows to never leave us nor forsake us. His Holy Spirit strengthens us and assists us to fulfill His divine purpose (1 Corinthians 12:4-11).
What is our responsibility in this sense of belonging? We simply need to show that we value our relationship with Him through faithful and true communication, meditating on His Word, and applying it practically to our lives. When we sin, we should confess and repent.
Prayerfully seek to know and fulfill God’s purpose for your life and ensure that whenever we connect with others, our behaviour must reflect His fundamental principles of love.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I am so grateful today that I am Your child. I belong to You! All that I am, all that I have is Yours! Please continue to help me to do all things for Your glory, for Your honour, and for my good, in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Read: Zechariah 2:8; Hebrews 13:5-6
Bible Reading Guide: Psalm 47; Luke 18:1-30; Deuteronomy 28:15-68
